Noboprobhaat Foundation began on 20 June 2018 — not in a city office, but in a remote village in Rangpur, a place with no reliable internet, no easy transport, and little access to education or technology. It was founded by a seventeen-year-old youth activist, Md. Yasin Ali, who had himself lived through family and social hostility and could no longer accept the deep-rooted discrimination, exclusion, and economic hardship faced every day by marginalized rural communities — particularly young people of diverse genders and sexualities, Indigenous and Hijra communities, rural widows and women, and the economically disadvantaged. He did not start alone: around him gathered a group of like-minded young people who had faced many of the same challenges. With no venue, no office, no funding, and no international recognition, they began — with nothing but an unshakable will, courageous leadership, and patience.

In Bangladesh, the path was not only difficult but at times felt impossible. Registering a non-profit here is hard enough on its own; doing so as a youth-led organization led by and working with the most marginalized communities — in a context where safety, freedom of association, and democratic space are severely limited — made every step a test of endurance. Yet, step by step, recognition came, each registration earned through years of waiting, repeated state scrutiny, and proof of the organization’s capacity: from the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms (RJSC) in 2022, the Department of Youth Development in 2024, the State of Delaware, USA in 2025, and finally the NGO Affairs Bureau — the highest registration authority in Bangladesh — in 2026. For us, surviving and continuing to grow in such an environment is itself a victory.

Today, Noboprobhaat Foundation works across economic empowerment, youth leadership, policy advocacy, health protection, HIV awareness, human rights, and access to justice. We hold one of the largest diverse youth networks in the country and are active in advocacy — with local government, civil society, and the media, and through report submissions and advocacy at United Nations mechanisms. Between 2018 and 2026 we have implemented more than twenty projects, mentored more than twenty other youth-led organizations, hosted international guests, and serve as the Secretariat of a national youth alliance. We have received national and international recognition, including the APCOM Hero Award 2024 and the Youth Equality Award 2026 — the latter jointly conferred by Plan International Bangladesh and Prothom Alo, and presented for the first time to an organization from the gender-diverse community in Bangladesh. Yet we have never worked for the sake of awards.

What makes this story unusual is who has built it. Our entire structure — Governing Body, Executive Director, team, and the communities we serve — are all rural, diverse young people. We have rarely had the chance to join formal leadership or management training; instead, we have learned, every day, through lived, real-world experience. We work towards an inclusive, democratic, and equitable society where no one is discriminated against on the basis of belief, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, disability, or any other identity. Because this work is not done by outsiders looking in — we are not separate from the communities we serve. We are their representatives, and we are them.

Noboprobhaat Foundation is a registered non-profit, rural, diverse, youth-led organization dedicated to the empowerment of marginalized communities in Bangladesh. Established in 2018 and headquartered in Rangpur, the Foundation is feminist, intersectional, and rights-based — led by and working for the communities it serves: rural young people of diverse genders and sexualities, Indigenous and Hijra communities, marginalized women, and the economically disadvantaged.

We work to advance human rights and democracy, gender justice and protection, economic empowerment, health rights and well-being, and climate justice and resilience. In practice, this means promoting civic space, freedom of expression, and youth leadership; advancing gender equality and preventing gender-based violence; expanding access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity; protecting Indigenous culture and rights; and building community capacity — all underpinned by policy advocacy at the local, national, and international levels.

Through these diverse programs and a strong, nationwide network of marginalized youth, Noboprobhaat Foundation continues to foster inclusive growth, social justice, and community resilience — working towards a society where no one is discriminated against on the basis of their belief, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, disability, or any other identity.

To create an inclusive and democratic society where all marginalized communities, particularly women, gender and sexual diverse youth, and indigenous community, can live with dignity, equality, and access to opportunities without facing discrimination or exclusion.

We empower rural, marginalized youth — particularly young people of diverse genders and sexualities, Indigenous communities, and marginalized women — to claim their rights and lead change, through education, leadership, and advocacy, working towards a world where everyone can live with dignity in a democratic, inclusive and just society.

1. Human Rights & Democracy: Promote human rights, civic participation, and democratic engagement among marginalized youth and communities.

2. Gender Justice & Protection: Reduce gender-based violence, stigma, and discrimination, and improve access to protection and justice.

3. Economic Empowerment: Strengthen skills, livelihoods, and economic self-reliance for marginalized rural youth, women, and gender-diverse communities.

4. Health Rights & Well-being: Improve access to inclusive sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), HIV awareness, and mental health and psychosocial support.

5. Climate Justice & Resilience: Ensure marginalized communities are included in climate action, resilience, and disaster response.

6. Youth Leadership & Capacity: Build the leadership, skills, and voice of marginalized youth to lead change themselves.

7. Networks & Partnerships: Strengthen collaboration with local, national, and international organizations to expand advocacy and impact.

1. Equality and Non-Discrimination: We believe in equal rights and opportunities for all, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, belief, economic background, or identity.

2. Human Rights and Social Justice: We are committed to protecting and promoting human rights, ensuring dignity, fairness, and justice for marginalized and vulnerable communities.

3. Youth Leadership and Participation: As a youth-led organization, we encourage and empower young people to take leadership roles in decision-making and social change.

4. Community-Driven Development: Our work is centred on the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve, ensuring that they actively participate in shaping solutions.

5. Empowerment and Capacity Building: We focus on enhancing the skills, knowledge, and economic independence of marginalized groups to help them build a sustainable future.

6. Integrity and Accountability: We maintain transparency, ethical practices, and accountability in all our operations, ensuring responsible use of resources.

7. Collaboration and Solidarity: We believe in collective action and work in partnership with local, national, and international organizations to maximize impact.

8. Innovation and Adaptability: We embrace innovative approaches to problem-solving and continuously adapt to evolving social challenges to create effective solutions.

9. Climate and Environmental Sustainability: We recognize the impact of climate change on marginalized communities and integrate sustainability into our programs and initiatives.

10. Feminist and Rights-Based Approach: We uphold feminist principles and a rights-based approach, ensuring that gender equality, social justice, and the empowerment of women and marginalized communities remain at the core of our work.

11. Do-No-Harm Approach: We follow a do-no-harm approach, ensuring that our interventions do not unintentionally cause harm to individuals or communities. We take a conflict-sensitive approach, promoting peace, inclusion, and safety in all our programs

Noboprobhaat Foundation is a rural-based organization, and reaching marginalized communities at the grassroots, rural level is at the heart of our mission. Our primary area of work is the Rangpur Division, the region where we are rooted and where most of our programs are based.

As we grow, we are steadily expanding into other rural areas of the country. Our health programs — including our HIV-related work — are currently active in Dinajpur, Bogura, Munshiganj, and Satkhira. In Sylhet, we carry out the activities of the Showhardo Alliance, which we lead. Our limited programming also extends to the Rohingya camps. In Dhaka, we conduct our national-level work — such as national advocacy seminars and conferences — while our central focus always remains on reaching communities at the rural level.

Across all these areas, we work in regions marked by poverty, limited access to education and healthcare, and social exclusion — and with the communities most often left behind, including rural young people of diverse genders and sexualities, Indigenous communities, marginalized women, and the economically disadvantaged.

1. Respect and Dignity: We treat every project participant with respect, dignity, and empathy, valuing their lived experiences, voices, and contributions.

2. Inclusivity and Non-Discrimination: We ensure equal access and participation for all, regardless of gender, identity, ethnicity, disability, or socio-economic background. We create safe spaces where diverse perspectives are welcomed and honoured.

3. Participation and Leadership: We believe in community-led solutions and encourage project participants to take an active role in decision-making, leadership, and advocacy for their rights.

4. Transparency and Accountability: We are committed to openness, honesty, and clear communication with our project participants. We ensure they are informed about project goals, activities, and outcomes. We also welcome feedback and hold ourselves accountable to those we serve.

5. Capacity Building and Empowerment: Our initiatives aim to equip project participants with skills, knowledge, and resources to help them build sustainable, independent futures and become agents of change in their communities.

6. Safety, Protection, and Well-being: We adhere to a do-no-harm approach, ensuring that all interventions prioritize physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. We maintain a strong commitment to safeguarding and to preventing any form of abuse or exploitation.

7. Sustainability and Long-Term Impact: We are committed to ensuring that our programs create lasting, meaningful change for project participants. We work towards long-term solutions that continue benefiting individuals and communities beyond project timelines.

8. Feedback and Continuous Improvement: We listen to and value the opinions, needs, and feedback of project participants to improve our programs, policies, and services continuously. We encourage open dialogue and ensure that participants feel heard and valued.

1. Transparency and Accountability:

• We uphold the highest standards of financial and operational transparency in all our projects.
• We ensure responsible and ethical use of funds, providing detailed and timely financial reports to our donors and partners (Financial Policy).
• We adhere to internationally recognized financial management, compliance, and anti-corruption standards.

2. Impact-Driven Approach:

• We are committed to delivering measurable, high-impact results that align with our donors’ and partners’ priorities.
• We set clear goals, objectives, and indicators, grounded in our Theory of Change, to track progress effectively.
• We apply a robust Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Framework — using internationally recognized standards such as the OECD-DAC criteria — to assess, learn from, and improve our work.

3. Effective Communication and Collaboration:

• We maintain open, honest, and regular communication with our donors and collaborators.
• We provide comprehensive updates, progress reports, and success stories — shared with consent — to demonstrate the real-world impact of our work.
• We actively seek and value feedback to enhance our programs and ensure alignment with shared goals.

4. Sustainable and Ethical Partnerships:

• We build partnerships based on mutual respect, shared values, and long-term sustainability.
• We ensure that our collaborations reflect ethical, human rights-based, and community-driven approaches.
• We promote inclusive and participatory decision-making in all partnerships.

5. Flexibility and Responsiveness:

• We understand that global and local contexts evolve, and we remain adaptable in responding to emerging challenges.
• We work closely with our donors and collaborators to adjust strategies when necessary to maximize impact.

6. Commitment to Innovation and Learning:

• We are dedicated to developing innovative, community-led solutions that address the needs of marginalized communities.
• We continuously improve our programs by learning from practice, research, and community insights.
• We share our knowledge and findings with donors and collaborators to contribute to collective learning.

7. Alignment with Shared Goals and Missions:

• We ensure that our projects align with the strategic priorities of our donors and partners.
• We work together to advance human rights, democracy, gender justice, economic empowerment, and social justice.

8. Commitment to Ethical and Inclusive Development:

• We uphold a do-no-harm approach, ensuring that all interventions respect human dignity, cultural sensitivity, and community priorities.
• We work towards gender equality, social inclusion, and the protection of marginalized communities — while remaining accountable not only to our donors, but also to the communities we serve.

1. Fair Employment Practices

• We ensure equal employment opportunities regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, disability, or socio-economic background.
• We uphold a merit-based hiring and promotion system that values talent, experience, and commitment to social change — and we recognize lived experience and community knowledge alongside formal qualifications.
• We comply with local labour laws and international human rights standards to ensure fair wages, benefits, and working conditions.

2. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• We celebrate workplace diversity, ensuring that team members from gender-diverse, Indigenous, and marginalized backgrounds feel included and respected (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy).
• We foster a non-discriminatory work environment where everyone’s contributions are valued.
• We actively promote women’s leadership, Indigenous participation, and youth leadership within our organization.

3. Safe and Supportive Work Environment

• We enforce zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, or violence in the workplace (Code of Conduct; PSEAH Policy).
• We have established clear, confidential grievance and reporting channels to address concerns effectively (Whistleblower Policy).
• We provide mental health and well-being support, prioritizing the wellness of our team.

4. Capacity Building and Professional Growth

• We offer regular training, workshops, and learning opportunities in human rights, advocacy, project management, and leadership.
• We support mentorship and career development to help team members grow within the organization — creating genuine pathways for community members to move into leadership roles.
• We encourage team members to pursue external learning aligned with their professional and personal goals.

5. Work-Life Balance and Well-Being

• We promote a healthy work-life balance through flexible work practices and support for personal and family needs.
• We provide for paid leave, parental leave, and rest, in line with our Human Resource Policy.
• We value team members’ feedback and continuously seek to improve the work environment.

6. Ethical and Transparent Culture

• We maintain transparency in our employment practices, including performance evaluations, promotions, and salary structures.
• We uphold a Code of Conduct reflecting our commitment to ethics, accountability, and integrity.
• We ensure all team members understand and uphold our organizational policies, including the Gender, Financial, Safeguarding, Data Protection, and Anti-Corruption and Anti-Bribery Policies.

7. Recognition and Appreciation

• We acknowledge and celebrate our team members’ contributions through recognition and appreciation.
• We nurture a culture of mutual respect and teamwork, where people feel valued and motivated.
• We provide opportunities for greater leadership and responsibility based on performance and commitment.

8. Employee Safety and Security

• We take active precautions to protect the safety of our team, particularly those working in challenging environments.
• We provide security protocols, digital safety training, and crisis-response mechanisms for those facing risks due to their advocacy work (Safety, Security, and Staff Wellbeing Policy).
• We maintain a strict do-no-harm approach to protect both our team and the communities we work with.

1. Alignment with National Development Goals:

• We ensure that our activities align with the Bangladesh government’s national development agenda, including Vision 2041 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• We actively contribute to policy discussions and implementation efforts in areas such as human rights, gender equality, youth empowerment, and climate resilience.
• We support the government’s efforts to promote diversity, inclusion, and social justice through our advocacy and programmatic initiatives.

2. Constructive Engagement with Government Institutions:

• We maintain positive relationships with government departments, including the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Youth Development Department, and the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs.
• We seek collaboration with law enforcement agencies and human rights commissions to ensure the protection and empowerment of marginalized communities.
• We work closely with local government bodies, including the DC, UNO, and municipal offices, to implement community-driven initiatives.

3. Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Frameworks:

• We strictly adhere to the laws and regulations governing non-profit organizations in Bangladesh.
• We ensure full transparency in financial management and reporting, including compliance with taxation laws and funding regulations.
• We are committed to obtaining the necessary government registrations and approvals, such as NGO Bureau registration for receiving foreign funding.

4. Capacity Building and Technical Support for Government Programs:

• We offer technical expertise, research, and grassroots insights to support government programs focused on youth leadership, gender equality, and human rights.
• We contribute to government policy dialogues by sharing data, reports, and best practices from our fieldwork.
• We conduct joint training programs with government institutions to enhance the skills of civil servants, social workers, and law enforcement officers in handling gender-diverse and marginalized populations.

5. Collaboration for Social and Economic Development:

• We work with government agencies to promote youth employment, entrepreneurship, and vocational training.
• We support education, healthcare, and skill-building programs for underprivileged communities in collaboration with relevant ministries.
• We partner with government bodies to implement community awareness campaigns on issues such as human rights, democracy, and gender-based violence prevention.

6. Disaster Response and Crisis Management:

• We coordinate with the government to assist in humanitarian efforts during natural disasters, health crises, and other emergencies.
• We provide emergency relief support in rural and marginalized communities in collaboration with government agencies.

7. Advocacy for Policy Reform and Social Justice:

• We engage in constructive advocacy to promote inclusive policies that protect the rights of gender-diverse communities, indigenous groups, and marginalized youth.
• We support evidence-based policy-making by providing data and research to inform government decisions.
• We participate in multi-stakeholder dialogues to advance governance, democracy, and human rights.

8. Promoting Transparency and Accountability:

• We ensure regular communication with government agencies to keep them informed about our work and impact.
• We submit annual reports and project evaluations to relevant government offices to ensure accountability.
• We support anti-corruption and good governance initiatives to promote integrity and ethical leadership in civil society.

1. 1. Youth-Led & Community-Driven Approach: Noboprobhaat Foundation is led by youth, for youth. Our leadership and decision-making structures prioritize the voices and participation of marginalized and vulnerable youth, including rural young people of diverse genders and sexualities, Indigenous communities, and rural women.

   2. Inclusive Representation: We are committed to diverse representation within our organization. Our Governing Body, team, and volunteers are themselves drawn from the marginalized communities we serve — ensuring that the voices of those we work for are at the very heart of our work.

   3. Working in Hard-to-Reach Areas: Unlike many organizations that focus on urban centres, Noboprobhaat Foundation works in remote and rural areas where marginalized communities face extreme discrimination, lack of opportunity, and systemic exclusion. We bring essential services, advocacy, and leadership-building programs to these often-neglected communities.

   4. A Holistic and Rights-Based Approach: We integrate human rights and democracy, gender justice, economic empowerment, health rights, and climate justice in our work. Our holistic approach ensures that communities receive comprehensive solutions to their challenges, rather than isolated interventions.

   5. Advocacy and Policy Influence: We actively engage with local, national, and international stakeholders — including United Nations mechanisms — to influence policies that affect marginalized youth. We bridge the gap between community voices and decision-makers, ensuring that policy reflects the realities of those we serve.

   6. Capacity-Building and Sustainable Development: We focus not only on immediate support and advocacy, but also on long-term capacity-building. Our programs equip marginalized youth with skills in leadership, governance, entrepreneurship, and rights — empowering them to sustain change within their own communities.

   7. Strategic Partnerships & Global Networks: We collaborate with respected international organizations, funders, and advocacy networks, including USAID, COC Nederland, Outright International, Youth Voices Count, CREA, Free Press Unlimited, The Commonwealth Equality Network, Kaleidoscope Trust, Article 19 South Asia, and The Asia Foundation. These partnerships amplify our impact and bring global best practices to local communities.

   8. A Feminist & Do-No-Harm Approach: Our work is deeply rooted in feminist values, intersectionality, and the do-no-harm principle. We prioritize safety, dignity, and non-discrimination, ensuring that our work never exposes the communities we serve to additional harm.

   9. Use of Media & Technology for Advocacy: We make effective use of social media, digital platforms, storytelling, and traditional media to advocate for human rights, counter misinformation, and amplify marginalized voices on national and international stages.

   10. Recognized & Award-Winning Organization: Our work has been recognized nationally and internationally, including the APCOM Hero Award 2024 (Community Organization category) and the Youth Equality Award 2026 — jointly conferred by Plan International Bangladesh and Prothom Alo, and presented for the first time to an organization from the gender-diverse community in Bangladesh.